The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process through which adults are introduced to the Catholic faith and way of life. The process is gradual, and generally takes 8 to 12 months, although it might involve a longer period of time. The culimination of the process is full initiation, including first reception of sacraments, during evening services on Holy Saturday.

The RCIA process is open to those who have never been baptized as well as those baptized into a different faith. For persons who embark on the process it is a time of reflection, prayer, instruction, discernment, and formation. The candidates, or catechumens who enter the process are expected to attend Mass on Sunday, attend a weekly RCIA session, and become involved in the activities of the parish.

RESPONSIBILITY OF THE FAITHFUL

The parish community (the assembly) must be consistently and sufficiently catechized so that it recognizes its responsibility to help and support the catechumens/candidates throughout the process of Initiation. Members of the parish community should be made aware of the importance of giving witness to their faith and its impact in evangelizing and nurturing conversion. They should be encouraged to pray for the catechumens/candidates, socialize with them, and by their example, encourage them to participate in the life of the parish and the ongoing mission of the Church.

While the whole church assembly is responsible for teaching adults and children who wish to be initiated, the RCIA team helps pass on the Catholic traditions and celebrations by facilitating discussions and dialogue. This is done through the presentation of materials on church teachings, history, and practices during RCIA sessions. For more information, please contact Deb Kuzma at 973-691-1561, Ext. 23, or rcia@stjudeparish.org.

“But you are a ‘chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may announce the praises’ of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9)